-Significant economic and community investment in RI and strong presence in the region with over 9300 employees

-Excellent relationships with RI organized labor

-Demonstrated track record of successfully managing programs of similar size

2. What is RINR 2009?

The Rhode Island Nutrition Requirements 2009 (RINR 2009) are designed to increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as to utilize reduced sodium foods, products with more than 50% whole grains, 100% juice drinks with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners, and low and fat free milk.

ARAMARK’s program was specifically built to comply and implement these standards that exceed federal nutrition requirements for meals and snacks and it assures consistent implementation of these standards across the state.

3. How is this program transparent?

The Statewide School Food Service program is built upon complete fiscal transparency and accountability at all levels (State, district). Program benefits include:

-No hidden fees or markups

-Open-book procurement through bulk purchasing power

-No complicated, time-consuming RFP process needed; districts can switch directly to program using pre-approved form contract.

4. If my school district adopts the Statewide School Food Service program, will local school administrators lose decision-making power over our own district’s food program?

No. ARAMARK works with individual districts to set menus, budgets, guarantees, investments, staffing, and selection of on site management team, including Food Service director. In addition, early termination of existing contracts is not necessary; Districts can choose to join program in advance of current contract expiration. In other words, local school districts retain ultimate control of their programs.

5. I am concerned that my school district switching onto the Statewide School Food Service Program means that local food service employees will lose their jobs.

Just as stated above, districts maintain ultimate control of their programs, including staffing.

6. Who can I contact if I have any questions about the School Food Service Program?